Liberal Studies

The Liberal Studies program focuses on educating high-quality professionals who have a strong knowledge base and the experiential background to teach in a diverse society. It is designed to provide students with a broadly based liberal arts degree in English, the sciences and math, humanities and fine arts, social sciences, and an area of concentrated study selected by the student.

The Liberal Studies major (except the non-credential option) meets the standards of the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing for the diversified major but does NOT waive the necessity of passing the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET): Multiple Subject.

The General (Pre-credential) Option

This option is for students who wish to enter a credential program with elementary subject matter prerequisites met.

The Bilingual/Cross-cultural (Pre-credential) Option

Students entering the Bilingual Professional Preparation Program must take the Liberal Studies core courses and the Bilingual Option Requirements. This option includes courses in Spanish, Mexican/Latino history and culture, and the teaching of English as a second language. Other languages and cultures are possible.

The General Online (Pre-credential) Option

This is a degree completion option for students living outside of Chico. All lower-division courses and some upper-division courses must be completed by taking equivalents at a community college or other four-year institution. Please contact an advisor at lsonadv@csuchico.edu for information.

The Liberal Arts (Non-credential) Option

Students who wish to obtain a liberal arts and sciences background and do not intend to enter the teaching profession select this option.

Integrated Teacher Education Core (ITEC) Option

ITEC is a program option that integrates the bachelor's degree and preliminary credential for individuals who already know they want to become teachers. This accelerated pathway may be completed in four years and includes:

Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies

Minor in Special Education

Preliminary Credential with options in Multiple Subject (elementary), Education Specialist or Multiple Subject with Bilingual Authorization (the Bilingual Option will require a minimum of 4.5 years to complete)

The Liberal Studies/Child Development Double Major

Students wishing to obtain two majors within their BA degree, preparing for careers in both elementary teaching and early childhood education, may choose the double major.

Career Outlooks

The projected need for elementary educators over the next five years in California is high. See a Liberal Studies advisor for information on subject matter authorizations and minors to develop even broader teaching opportunities.

Businesses and the helping professions are interested in hiring competent people with liberal arts and sciences backgrounds. Students should consult with their advisor or a career counselor concerning the range of opportunities.

Subject Matter Competency

All students who plan to enter a credential program must further demonstrate competency in the subject matter by passing the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET): Multiple Subject and satisfy the basic skills requirement. Liberal Studies advisors will provide you with information about the exams and prerequisites for credential programs.

University Catalog
California State University, Chico
400 West First Street
Chico, CA 95929